On March 18, a ceremonial event was held at the Belarusian State University (BSU) to mark the 90th anniversary of the birth of Metropolitan Filaret (Vakhromeev), the first Patriarchal Exarch of All Belarus. The event was reported by the website of the Belarusian Orthodox Church.
The program began with an exhibition titled "Life in Faith," which showcased theological works, personal belongings, and photographs of the archpastor. During the event, BSU and the Belarusian Orthodox Church signed a Cooperation Plan for 2025. This document outlines plans for scientific conferences, educational activities, worship services, and social actions.
Metropolitan Benjamin of Minsk and Zaslavl emphasized that the cooperation between the Church and education was largely made possible thanks to Metropolitan Filaret:
"He did a lot for Belarus, and his care and wisdom remain an example for us."
BSU Rector Andrei Korol highlighted the importance of the Institute of Theology and traditional university worship services, including prayers for Knowledge Day and Easter services.
The event concluded with a dialogue platform where representatives of the clergy, academic staff, and government bodies discussed the legacy of Metropolitan Filaret and prospects for cooperation.
Metropolitan Filaret (Vakhromeev) led the Belarusian Orthodox Church from 1978 to 2013. Under his leadership, the Minsk Diocese became the Belarusian Exarchate. He initiated the establishment of the feast day of the Assembly of Belarusian Saints in 1984, and organized the translation of the Holy Scriptures into the Belarusian language. During his tenure, the Holy Fire from the Tomb of Christ in Jerusalem was brought to Belarus for the first time.
Over the 35 years of Metropolitan Filaret's leadership, historical Orthodox dioceses were revived, and new ones were established. 24 female and 10 male monasteries were opened. The number of Orthodox parishes increased several times, and hundreds of new churches and church buildings were constructed and restored. The spiritual revival was supported by seminaries in Minsk and Vitebsk.
The Honorary Patriarchal Exarch of Belarus, Metropolitan Filaret, passed away in 2021 at the age of 85. In 2022, a monument to him was erected in Minsk. In memory of Metropolitan Filaret, exhibitions and conferences are held in Belarus.